Sunday during a pandemic in the Philippines

Last Updated on October 28, 2024 by Ellen

Updated my Facebook ‘cover photo’; one of the most colorful sunsets since we’ve been here. Every day we watch as the sun sets right on the water. But due to lack of clouds, the fading color is usually subdued.

Sunday during a pandemic

Today, another quiet Sunday at the Hangout Beach Resort in Malay, Aklan, Philippines. Mom had hoped we might attend Sunday mass again. But we didn’t have a definite time or escort. I have the feeling that Good Friday and Easter were ‘special’ circumstances. We probably should not push our luck violating the quarantine. Mom does not have an official pass.

Instead we spent the day, relaxing, reading, web-surfing, cooking. Mom says she’s taking some free online courses — when the internet allows video to play. The wifi can be pretty slow during high-usage hours.

Living space improvements

Some upgrades to our living space; we’ve added two wall-fans. We’re especially glad to have the one in our bedroom. Now we can use the air conditioner a lot less during overnight hours.

I also found a dusty, dirty, cobwebbed desk and stool in the garage area under our unit. After washing it down thoroughly, Ellie now has a writing desk which can be easily moved inside or out on the balcony.

Thanks to our host, Yolly, and the staff for making us even more comfortable.

ellen at the new desk, a wall fan, on a Sunday during a pandemic in the Philippines

Throwback music

Just for kicks, while observing neighborhood life, I jotted down a playlist of songs that somebody was blasting at moderate volume:

(Everything I do) I do it for you – Bryan Adams – 1991
How do I get you alone – Celine Dion/Heart – 2007 / 1987
Winds of change – Scorpions – 1991
Don’t want to miss a thing – Aerosmith – 1998
Zombie – The Cranberries – 1994
Total eclipse of the heart – Bonnie Tyler – 1983
Lady – Kenny Rogers/Lionel Ritchie – 1980
Jealous guy – Roxy Music/John Lennon – 1981
November Rain – Guns n’ Roses – 1992

Holy mullet haircuts! It felt like a time warp. Lol. And a definite favor of ballads, as well.

Actually, karaoke is big in the Philippines, like most of Southest Asia, and these are those kinds of tunes. Thankfully, we do NOT have any obnoxious karaoke going on. These are just the the original recorded songs.

Fish haul on a Sunday during a pandemic

tedly pulling fish net, small fish in a bucket, on a Sunday during a pandemic in the Philippines

Late in the afternoon today, I helped pull in a huge fishing net. It was the first time I joined with about 25 to 30 locals – men, women, children. It was easy enough; slowly dragging in the 250 to 300 foot long by 12 foot deep net which arced out from from two points on the beach.

Unfortunately, when it was all pulled out of the water, the catch was minimal. A little washtub easily held the haul; maybe a couple pounds of very small sardines.

As always, be thankful and generous, happy trails, & more beer.

Life is NOW!